The Akron Metro Regional Transit Authority (RTA) claims the largest solar rooftop array in the state of Ohio. The 48-kW DC solar rooftop system at Metro’s headquarters is expected to produce around 486,760 kilowatt hours of solar power a year and prevent the emissions of 350 metric tons of CO2.
The $2.5-million project was funded in part through a state grant with funds provided by the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Third Sun Solar installed the system, which is comprised of 2,076 Sharp 235-watt solar modules.
Third Sun Solar and Sharp also have been selected for an additional phase of the project, which will begin construction in late 2010. This phase, a second roof array on the same complex, will supply another 355 kW DC and use an additional 1,477 Sharp panels.
Other environmental measures at Akron Metro include the use of diesel/electric hybrid and natural gas buses and recycled rainwater for use in landscaping and restrooms.
Meanwhile, the city of Aurora, Colorado, will activate three 100-kW solar power systems at city facilities, which will produce a combined 460,200 kilowatt hours of renewable energy annually and offset 464 tons of carbon annually. The energy produced will provide approximately 8 percent of the total electrical consumption of the three sites.
Under a power purchase agreement (PPA), Martifer Solar USA will build and maintain the distributed 200-kW solar arrays at the Aurora Municipal Court building and the North Satellite Building, enabling the city to purchase renewable energy below their utility rate and without any upfront system costs.
The planned ground-mount 100-kW system at the Sand Creek Water Reclamation Facility is scheduled for completion in October.
Once the systems are operational, each array will earn back a $200,000 rebate from Xcel Energy.
Energy Management
Environmental Management
Air & Emissions
Buildings
Cities
Compliance
Supply Chain
Transportation
Global Regions
3BL News